If you’re looking to make your outdoor space more usable, a great way to do this is to add a concrete slab or patio to your property. But because this is such a permanent option, you’re going to want to be certain that this is the right option for you and that you’ve considered all that having a concrete slab poured will entail. To help you make this decision, here are three things to consider when adding concrete to your outdoor space.
How Your Space Will Be Used
Before you start pouring your concrete slab or even contact a contractor to help you, you’re going to want to figure out what you plan to use this proposed space for. The purpose of your concrete slab will have a big impact on how you execute on your project. According to Murray Anderson, a contributor to DoItYourself.com, knowing what you’ll be putting on, in, and around your concrete section will help you know where you need extra supports or additional features. If you plan to have a sound system or electrical wires coming out to your slab, you’ll likely want to add PVC pipe to make this easier. If you’ll have a large barbeque on the concrete, you’ll need to make sure it will be able to support that weight.
Slope and Drainage
The slope and drainage of both your outdoor space and the proposed location and size of concrete slab will be a big consideration when planning to add concrete. ConcretePatio.org reminds us that there needs to be proper drainage on and around your concrete slab to keep your home, yard, and concrete safe. If you don’t account for proper drainage, during a heavy rainstorm or winter runoff, you could end up flooding a section of your home or yard that you hadn’t intended to. Take this possibility into account when planning where and how to orient your new concrete slab.
The Weather The Day Of Pouring
Because pouring a slab of concrete can be a bit of a process, you’re likely going to want to either contract the work out to a professional or get some strong friends to help you out. But regardless of how prepared you are for the work to take place, if the weather is wrong on the day you planned to pour the concrete, your project’s going to have to wait. FamilyHandyman.com writes that if it’s too hot, too windy, or too wet, you should wait to pour your concrete. When it’s hot and windy, the concrete can dry too quickly for you to get the right finish you’re looking for. And if it’s wet or rainy, that moisture could ruin the surface of your concrete slab.
If you’ve been wanting to pour some concrete in your outdoor space, use the tips mentioned above to ensure you’re prepared to successfully accomplish this project.
